Nevada RNFormation - August 2019

Page 6 • Nevada RNformation August, September, October 2019
By Susan S. VanBeuge,
DNP, APRN, FPN-BC,
FAANP
As the 80th Nevada
Legislature comes to a
close, there is much to
reflect on for nursing.
Nurses celebrated
time being part of the
legislative process to advocate for patient care
and nursing practice issues. One day was a
particular highlight for the advanced practice
nursing community – the first ever Nurse
Practitioner Day at the Legislature on May 13.
This day marked firsts on many accounts:
the first day dedicated to advanced practice
nursing at the Nevada Legislature, a first-time
visit to this historic place for a few attendees,
and some positive changes for nurse
practitioner practice happened in committee
meetings on this day.
The day began with time for networking
and sharing a meal as we met with each
other as professionals and the lawmakers
who came by for a chat. Not only did we meet
lawmakers, but those who support them to
do the serious work of our state. We had
several presentations about the legislative
process, how a bill becomes law, and
ways to participate in making change. One
highlight was a visit to the gift shop where
all things Nevada were available to adorn our
professional attire.
Nurse Practitioners at the Nevada Legislature
As the morning progressed, we prepared to
sit in the Senate with our elected officials for
some and others were in the gallery. All of us
were treated to an introduction and applause
for the work done as advanced practice
registered nurses in the great state of Nevada.
Senators made personal introductions with
some fun stories shared about individuals. We
concluded the time in the Senate with many
photos and more great memories.
This experience is one that should be
repeated in every legislative session.
Attending nurse's day at the legislature can
be an excellent experience to learn, advocate,
and connect with others. It allows nurses to
be part of the legislative process in this citizen
legislature. A citizen legislature means that
our officials are regular citizens who have jobs
outside their elected roles. They are teachers,
lawyers, firefighters, health care providers,
and everything in between. A critical aspect
to remember is that they represent us as
constituents and we should be providing
them input so they can represent our voice
in new statute and revisions to modernize
existing law. In terms of health care, we have
a powerful voice as nurses. Though there are
varying types of licensure (LPN, RN, APRN),
we all have a voice and perspective to share.
Tell your story, share your experience, and
be part of the process to make purposeful,
meaningful change for your practice and
patient population. This experience can all
start at the legislature, so consider the next
time the call for Nurses Day at the Legislature
rolls around in 2021 you make plans to attend.
Nurse Practitioner Day at the Legislature is
in the books. It was a historic first for Nevada
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses but not
the last as we continue to advocate for access
to care across the state. See you in 2021 in
Carson City!
Assemblywoman Titus with Nevada nurse practitioners.
Senator Wheeler with Nevada nurse practitioners.
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